Conducting a medication audit in a care home involves a thorough review of various aspects to ensure the safe and effective management of medications. Here is a checklist of checks to perform during a medication audit:
1. Medication Administration Records (MAR):
– Verify that MAR charts are accurately completed for each resident.
– Check for signatures, dates, and times to ensure proper documentation.
-Dose variable be specific with signature.
2. Medication Storage:
– Inspect the storage areas for medications, ensuring they are secure, appropriately labelled, and stored at the correct temperatures.
– Confirm that medications are not expired, and discard any outdated or unused medications.
3. Staff Training and Competency:
– Ensure that staff members are adequately trained and competent in medication administration.
– Verify that staff training records are up to date.
4. Prescription Orders:
– Review prescription orders to confirm that they are current, accurate, and match the medications administered.
– Check for any changes in medications and ensure corresponding documentation.
5. Dosage Accuracy:
– Double-check that the doses administered match the prescribed amounts.
– Verify calculations and conversions to prevent dosage errors.
6. PRN (As Needed) Medications:
– Need to be renewed monthly.
– Assess the appropriateness of PRN medications and ensure proper documentation of the reasons for administration.
– Check for any patterns of frequent PRN use.
7. Special Medication Handling:
– Doxazin medication can only be administered after a pulse is checked.
– Confirm proper handling of controlled substances and high-risk medications.
– Ensure that protocols for handling and documenting these medications are followed.
8. Resident Involvement:
– Involve residents in their medication management whenever possible.
– Confirm that residents are informed about their medications and understand their purpose.
9. Medication Disposal:
– Review the procedures for the safe disposal of medications, especially expired or discontinued ones.
– Ensure compliance with environmental regulations for disposal.
10. Documentation Audits:
– Conduct a comprehensive audit of medication-related documentation, including incident reports, to identify any trends or areas for improvement.
– Verify that any reported medication incidents have been appropriately addressed.
11. Communication and Handovers:
– Review communication processes, especially during shift changes, to ensure accurate and timely exchange of information about medications.
12. Regular Audits and Reviews:
– Establish a schedule for regular medication audits to maintain ongoing compliance and identify areas for improvement.
– Conduct periodic reviews of medication policies and procedures to align with best practices and regulatory changes.
13. Check the Index and Staff signatures
– Without any fault, errors, or missing page numbers.
-Have Staff Signature sheet
14. Body map
-Need to be renewed monthly.
15. Medication profiles
– Need to be updated on 6 monthly basis.
16. Medication timings (8:00,13:00,17:00,21:00) need to be highlighted properly.
17. Parkinson’s medication
-Parkinson’s medication needs to be administered at a specific time.
18. General Paraffin based risk assessment
– Upload assessment on PCS.
19. The opening date on the medication box is a must.
20. Abbey Pain Scale assessment must be in place.
21. Paraffin-based medication must be stored separately as it is highly inflammable.
22. Controlled drugs must be audited weekly.
Remember, the specifics of a medication audit may vary based on local regulations and care home policies. Regular training and updates for staff involved in medication management are essential for maintaining a high standard of care.
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